From new fare enforcement measures to celebrations of history and community, it’s been an exciting week in transit. Here’s a roundup of what’s making headlines across the country. 

 

CTrain Riders Must Now Validate Tickets Before Boarding 

Starting Wednesday, Calgary Transit customers must scan their mobile tickets at CTrain stations before boarding. This new requirement aims to reduce fare evasion and follows an internal analysis that revealed nearly half of adult and youth mobile tickets were not properly activated. 

Until now, riders simply had to activate their tickets on their phones, but those days are over. Failing to validate now could lead to a $250 fine. 

To support the change, Calgary Transit has installed 112 ticket validators across its network and is launching an education campaign to help riders adjust. While validators will only be at stations for now, the agency may expand their use based on rider feedback and operational needs. 

 

VIA Rail’s Ocean Train Celebrates 120 Years 

One of Canada’s most historic rail routes is marking a major milestone. VIA Rail’s Ocean train, which travels from Montréal to Halifax, is celebrating 120 years of continuous service. 

First launched as part of the Intercolonial Railway in 1876, the Ocean train played a foundational role in connecting the Maritimes to the rest of Canada, literally and politically. It carried everything from freight and troops to immigrants and returning veterans, embedding itself into the nation’s story. 

Today, the Ocean train is cherished for more than just its scenic route. Travellers often choose the 22-hour journey for its slower pace, classic rail charm, and the chance to experience the landscapes and people of the Maritimes in a more meaningful way. 

 

Free KDays Admission for Arc Card Holders in Edmonton 

Edmonton Transit Service is giving riders another reason to hop on board. On July 22, Arc cardholders will get free general admission to KDays as part of “Transit Tuesday.” 

Simply show your Arc card at the gate to enter, though single-use tickets and multi-day passes aren’t eligible. 

The promotion is tied to ETS’s historical exhibit in the KDays Discovery Zone, running July 18–27. Visitors can explore two heritage buses, a modern articulated bus, and a collection of transit artifacts from city and provincial archives. The Edmonton Radial Railway Society will also be on hand to share insights into the city’s streetcar legacy. 

 

Whether it’s improved fare technology, a legendary railway journey, or community fun through transit partnerships, this week highlights how transit systems across Canada continue to evolve while celebrating their roots. Stay tuned next week for more updates from the world of Canadian transit.